Between running on the playground, playing sports and rollicking through gym class, children are on the go. But nearly 9 million children in the United States suffer from asthma, according to the National Library of Medicine. While asthma can manifest at any age, it most often starts by age 5 (WebMD). Some children may present with typical symptoms while others show more atypical signs. Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. The inside of these airways becomes swollen and sore (nlm.NIH.gov), a condition that can be especially dangerous for little ones because their airways are smaller than adults’.
The most common signs of asthma are frequent coughing that may occur during play, at night or while laughing or crying, rapid breathing, chest tightness, a whistling sound when breathing (wheezing), less energy during play, shortness of breath, and tight chest and neck muscles (WebMD). If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, keep a detailed description of the symptoms, how long they last and when they occur. To properly diagnose asthma and its severity, a doctor will not only look at the history of symptoms but also perform a thorough physical examination, as well as a potential chest x-ray and/or lung function tests.
Different kids often will have different asthma triggers. When possible, avoiding these triggers (smoke, pollen, animal dander, mold and illness/infection) is the best treatment. Avoidance is not always possible, so doctors often prescribe medication. Many asthma regimens include a long-term inhaler, as well as a quick-acting inhaler. The long-term inhaler is also known as a maintenance inhaler and is used daily to keep flare-ups from happening. The quick-acting inhaler is also known as a rescue inhaler. Its purpose is to open the airway when an attack does happen and allow the child to breathe easier (KidsHealth.org). The treatment plan for each child differs depending on severity and age.
Once airways become sensitive, they remain that way for life. However, approximately half of children outgrow some or all of their symptoms by adolescence. There is no way to tell which child will experience asthma for life, which will outgrow it and which will see a return of symptoms in adulthood. All treatment plans vary, and maintaining open communication with your child’s doctor can ensure the best outcome available.
Jessica Heine is a labor & delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family.